MIES (Switzerland) – Last month, we covered how the Universal Studios basketball team qualified for the 1936 Olympics. Now, let's explore its origins, vision, and key figures.
Universal Studios was founded in 1912 in the United States by German immigrant Carl Laemmle. Under his guidance, the company evolved into more than just a movie studio, but a self-sustaining filmmaking hub with a workforce of around 300 people, all engaged in various aspects of the film industry.
At that time, opportunities to play basketball beyond college were scarce, primarily available through local YMCA teams or company-sponsored teams.
Universal seized this opportunity by recruiting talented college graduates, many from UCLA, as grips, best boys, and electricians while also having them play for the studio’s basketball team.
Jack Pierce, Universal’s iconic head makeup artist, played a key role in forming the team. Renowned for creating iconic movie monsters like Frankenstein, Dracula, and the Hunchback of Notre Dame, Pierce also scouted California for basketball talent.
Frank Lubin is a Lithuanian 6-foot-7 center born in the US who starred for Universal Studios before making history in his home country. After winning Olympic gold in 1936, he stayed in Lithuania to develop the sport, leading them to EuroBasket titles in 1937 and 1939 under the name of Pranas Lubinas.
Besides his talent on the court, Frank Lubin took part in a unique promotional stunt: dressing as Frankenstein before games to entertain the crowd. This performance earned him the nickname "Frankenstein," which stayed with him throughout his career.
The Universal team played a fundamental role in the studio’s marketing strategy. As they traveled, they carried banners featuring famous movie stars and producers, promoting Universal’s films.
Universal’s basketball team was more than just a sports team; it was a unique blend of Hollywood showmanship and athletic talent. Their story remains a testament to the unexpected intersections between cinema, marketing, and sports history.
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The FIBA Foundation is the social and legacy arm of FIBA that addresses the role of sports particularly basketball in society, preserving and promoting basketball’s values and its cultural heritage.
FIBA’s cultural heritage is the heart of the FIBA Foundation’s cultural and historical activities. It is one of the driving forces behind the promotion and dissemination of FIBA’s values.